Assembly Technician at Karman Space & Defense in Brea, CA

This role is part of our Space and Launch business, which has contributed to the nation’s space programs for decades by delivering complete solutions from concept to flight. We enable successful space operations with mission-critical technology supporting every step from first launch to final landing, including launch vehicle subsystems, propulsion systems, aerodynamic and interstage systems, and payload protection and deployment. Our high-performance solutions are engineered to operate in the most extreme environments and meet precise mission requirements.

The Assembly Technician supports hands-on production, engineering, and manufacturing activities by performing mechanical assembly, assisting with testing, and contributing to hardware packaging and shipping. This role helps ensure components and assemblies meet technical requirements and production timelines by working directly with engineering staff, manufacturing teams, and quality personnel in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Performs mechanical assembly using verbal and written instructions, including fastening, bonding, and riveting.
• Supports engineering testing and manufacturing activities.
• Reads and interprets blueprints, schematics, and technical diagrams.
• Uses chemicals, adhesives, and solvents as required.
• Works within the enterprise resource planning (ERP) system (Epicor) to track hardware and support on-time job completion.
• Assists with test setup and execution.
• Supports packaging and shipping of hardware and equipment.
• Follows safety and security procedures and reports potentially unsafe conditions.

Required Qualifications

• Experience using basic hand and power tools with strong mechanical aptitude.
• Basic understanding of hand tools and willingness to expand technical skills.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to produce high-quality work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Self-motivated with a positive, team-oriented attitude and ability to work independently.
• Ability to stand and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods.
• Ability to safely use chemicals, adhesives, and solvents following procedures and wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Valid driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications

• Typically 2 or more years of experience in aerospace, defense, manufacturing, or a related production environment.
• Experience with surface preparation of metallic or composite materials.
• Experience with foreign object debris (FOD) controls.
• Experience with electrostatic discharge (ESD) sensitive hardware or clean room environments.
• Experience operating in a fast-paced environment with high attention to detail.

Physical Requirements

• Moderate physical and repetitive work.
• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Use of stairs.
• Ability to lift heavy objects occasionally.
  The essential functions of this position must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.

This position requires U.S. person status under U.S. export control laws, including U.S. citizens and nationals, lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Company‑paid life and AD&D insurance
• Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage
• Tuition reimbursement

Hourly Rate

$18—$20 USD